The Do's and Don'ts at Landstar

hello Dewey, I am going through the hiring process to come on to LS. I am in southern california like you. Is it possible to do good here if I want to run 5 days out 2 days home in our area. I understand I must do my networking with the agents in this area. I used to be a realtor and know how to call and email people for opportunities to get work but is there plenty of freight to work 5 out 2 home here in our area? And can you refer any good agents for me to contact? Thanks for any advice you got Dewey.

 

Ya So Cal is a good area to work out of once you get to know the agents in that area. I usually will head out to Texas from So Cal then bounce around the mid-west for 2-3 weeks then go back home. If your truck is CARB compliant then you will be able to move more freely in Cal. There are a lot of hazmat loads going back to So Cal that pay good from the midwest and also make sure to have your tanker end also.

 

I didnt know LS had tanker loads ?
is this somenthing new?

 

Those are those IBC tote loads that require a combination hazmat/tanker endorsement. I was doing those a lot but got nailed during the last DOT blitz because I had some that had residue rings around the caps and the officer said that was a hazmat spill.

 

Sounds more like the DOT was fishing for reasons. But anyway easy fix next time you load at the toter places, I get them to give me a pack of those absorball rags and wipe the tops off as there loaded, its a heck of alot easier though on a platform i guess to do.

Yes, we do have some drybulk and tankers, not many though. there are several that run up here in TN and KY for the tabaco company not sure if its a special deal, but have seen others running around the country

 

That's why I hate doing Hazmat loads over here. Most are heavy & cheap. Too much hassle.

 

I concur theres not enough money in Haz-Mat anymore. What really kills me is the diffrence in prices with the same toters but going in a van verses a platform

 

yea .... the loads don't pay enough for Hazmat

at the DOT blitz they said on the radio they were going after hazmat ...... I bet the rates went through the roof.

 

I'm in the process of formulating a plan to start at Landstar before the new year.

I'm trying to get a handle on what start up cost will be for insurance, plates etc. Can anyone give me an idea?

Also is there a list of terminals and drop yards? Can you leave a car?

 

The only thing that needs to be paid for prior to coming on is your 2290 which right now is about $550 & extra few bucks depending on who you file with. Also you have to pay I believe $50 or $75 for your first inspection.

Plates & Insurance will be deducted out your settlement once you lease on.

And there's I believe 7 orientation centers here, if you look on LS website you'll see the list & there could be agents in your area who have drop lots who won't mind you leaving your vehicle